Adelaide’s NGA (Next Generation Academy) Girls Program will begin its seventh year with a curtain raiser match prior to Adelaide’s Round Nine AFLW clash against North Melbourne at Norwood Oval on Sunday.

The match will feature two teams of Crows Academies participants aged 14-15.

The sides have been named after Crows Academies graduates Kiera Mueller (red guernseys) and Teah Charlton (blue guernseys), who are both key contributors in the Crows’ AFLW team. 

Adelaide’s NGA Girls Program has experienced great success over the past seven years, with 19 of its graduates featuring in the AFLW, and five becoming premiership players.

Speaking to AFC Media in the lead-up to the curtain raiser, Crows Academies manager Jarrod Meers said the program gave young, rising footballers a chance to showcase their talent.  

“History shows there is great synergy between the Crows Academies program and the AFLW,” Meers said. 

“There have been 19 of our Crows Academies graduates who have now been drafted into the AFLW system and we feel that our program has been critical in inspiring female talent in South Australia. 

“Being part of our Crows Academies programs gives all talented players a taste of what it could be like to prepare, train and play for our AFLW side.

“No other program can provide young talented players with inner sanctum AFLW access.”

The Crows Academies NGA Girls Program curtain raiser will begin at 12pm on Sunday at Norwood Oval. 

The Adelaide Football Club Crows Academies programs (female and male) are proudly supported by Bridgestone, which is passionate about supporting the next generation of athletes.